Start the semester off with a writing assignment on what makes a good student. Have students write in class the first day on this topic. They may brainstorm ideas first with each other and teacher. Or they may do a quick write silently and then share their ideas with peers. Often they’re very surprised when their ideas are similar. The final essay on the topic can be due in a week.
With this method students are generating ideas at the beginning of term on how to succeed academically while practicing writing skills.